The mayors of 37 European cities are meeting in the Vatican to promote peace in Syria. They argue that this is the first step to stop the refugee crisis.

They also thanked the pope for the work he is doing to put an end to this tragedy.

VIRGINIA RAGGI

Mayor of Rome

"I thank the pope for this important initiative. This confirms the moral and stimulating role his pontificate is having in social and humanitarian issues.”

The mayors come from different countries and political backgrounds. They have acknowledged the importance of humanitarian corridors and they criticized the passiveness of some European countries and the international community in dealing with this crisis.

ADA COLAU

Mayor of Barcelona

"An international community that, all too often, looks the other way in the face of crimes of war and repeated violations of human rights, suffered by our brotheres and sisters in Syria or in other, much less visible countries.”

MANUELA CARMENA

Mayor of Barcelona

"Spain should have taken in 17,500 Syrian refugees. Right now they have only covered one percent of the projected figure.”

The conference ends on Saturday, when they will meet with the pope and present to him their final conclusions.

According to the latest data, 2016 has been the most lethal year in the Mediterranean: 3,800 refugees have perished, as of November.

December 6, 2016. The Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors (PCPM) has launched a website to provide the public with information about their mission: "the effective protection of minors and a commitment to ensure their human and spiritual development.”

Vatican launches new website for the Protection of Minors from sex abuse

December 6, 2016. The Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors (PCPM) has launched a website to provide the public with information about their mission: "the effective protection of minors and a commitment to ensure their human and spiritual development.”

Vatican launches new website for the Protection of Minors from sex abuse

December 6, 2016. The Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors (PCPM) has launched a website to provide the public with information about their mission: "the effective protection of minors and a commitment to ensure their human and spiritual development.”

Vatican releases statement on revelations by gay prelate

2015-10-03

"With regard to the declarations and interview given by Msgr. Krzystof Charamsa it should be observed that, notwithstanding the respect due to the events and personal situations, and reflections on the issue, the decision to make such a pointed statement on the eve of the opening of the Synod appears very serious and irresponsible, since it aims to subject the Synod assembly to undue media pressure. Msgr. Charamsa will certainly be unable to continue to carry out his previous work in the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and the Pontifical universities, while the other aspects of his situation shall remain the competence of his diocesan Ordinary."

Vatican releases statement on revelations by gay prelate>

"With regard to the declarations and interview given by Msgr. Krzystof Charamsa it should be observed that, notwithstanding the respect due to the events and personal situations, and reflections on the issue, the decision to make such a pointed statement on the eve of the opening of the Synod appears very serious and irresponsible, since it aims to subject the Synod assembly to undue media pressure. Msgr. Charamsa will certainly be unable to continue to carry out his previous work in the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and the Pontifical universities, while the other aspects of his situation shall remain the competence of his diocesan Ordinary."